Sean McVay Addresses Myles Garrett's Knee Injury: Rams Star to Miss at Least Four Games

As the NFL season kicks into high gear on September 14, 2026, the Los Angeles Rams are already facing a significant setback. Star defensive end Myles Garrett will undergo knee surgery and is expected to miss at least four games after being placed on injured reserve, the team announced. The news broke just before Sunday's slate of games, casting a shadow over the Rams' early campaign.

McVay: 'We Thought He Could Work Through It'

Head coach Sean McVay addressed the media on Monday, expressing the team's initial optimism that Garrett could manage the injury without surgery. "Thought we would take an approach where he'd be feeling good enough to go contribute positive change and be the player that he's capable of," McVay said, via ESPN's Sarah Barshop. "That wasn't the case. And so the next right thing for us is to be able to get this thing fixed."

Garrett's knee issue lingered throughout the summer, limiting his practice time and ultimately impacting his performance in the Rams' season-opening loss to the San Francisco 49ers last Thursday. He was largely ineffective, later citing his health as the primary reason. The Rams hoped rest and managed reps would suffice, but it became clear that surgery was unavoidable.

Timeline and Impact

While the exact recovery timeline won't be known until after the procedure, Garrett will miss a minimum of four games. That's a tough blow for a Rams defense that already looked vulnerable in Week 1. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the margin for error in Los Angeles has shrunk considerably, with or without Garrett, after the lackluster opener.

The former No. 1 overall pick and perennial Pro Bowler is a game-wrecker when healthy, and his absence will test the depth of the Rams' defensive line. Opposing offenses will likely adjust their protection schemes, focusing on containing the remaining pass rushers. The Rams will need someone to step up in Garrett's stead, or risk falling further behind in a competitive NFC West.

What's Next for the Rams?

As Garrett prepares for surgery, the Rams must navigate a challenging stretch without their defensive cornerstone. McVay emphasized that the team will have a clearer timeline after the operation, but the immediate focus is on getting him healthy for the long haul. In the meantime, the coaching staff will look to veterans and young players to fill the void.

For die-hard fans, the situation is a reminder of the physical toll of the NFL season. The Rams' ability to adapt will be crucial. Stay tuned to Vulius for further updates on Garrett's recovery and the Rams' season trajectory.